At the Neighborhood Watch Unit, our philosophy is that a clean neighborhood is a safe neighborhood. When residents and neighbors take the time to address small issues such as picking up trash and cleaning grafitti, it goes a long way in detering crime because it shows a collective concern. The same can be said about shoveling snow.

Shoveling is a vigorous work out which everyone can agree is tedious. It falls into the category of requirements in order to maintain a healthy neighborhood. With that being said, we want all residents to know that shoveling stairs and sidewalks in front of your home or residence is NOT optional. Per order of a 2007 ordinance, any resident who does not shovel their sidewalk/walkways/stairs will be fined with a ticket. Please read the following ordinace at length for all specifications regarding specifications.

http://www.cityofboston.gov/snow/pdfs/Bos_Snow_Ordi.pdf

Remember to shovel a width of 42 inches, so that wheelchairs and strollers will be able to pass easily. There is also a time limit, therefore watch weather forecasts and monitor the conditions.

If there is a senior citizen on your street or someone who is physically incapable of shoveling, talk among your neighbors to see if you could schedule shifts. This is an oppurtunity to interact within a neighborhood and talk about what is going on. This helps to strengthen and unify your community!

Expect more snow to come, since it's only January!